Diabetes

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, or when the body is unable to effectively use the insulin it produces.

Insulin is the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Glucose comes from two main sources: food and the liver.
The pancreas secretes insulin, which helps move sugar from the bloodstream into the cells.

Diabetes is characterized by:

Producing a small amount of insulin.
Not producing insulin at all.

Diagnosis

A1C Test (Glycated Hemoglobin):
- This blood test indicates the average blood sugar level over the past two to three months.
Random Blood Sugar Test:
- A blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
Fasting Blood Sugar Test:
- Normal: Less than 100 mg/dL.
- Prediabetes: 100–125 mg/dL.
- Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is characterized by either producing a small amount of insulin or not producing any insulin at all, requiring daily insulin injections.

Causes of Type 1 Diabetes:

Genetic factors.
Exposure to viruses and environmental factors.

Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes:

Frequent urination or bedwetting in children.
Increased thirst and dry mouth.
Fatigue and weakness.
Unintentional weight loss.
Extreme hunger.

Treatment for Type 1 Diabetes:

Taking insulin.
Counting carbohydrates.
Continuous blood sugar monitoring.
Eating healthy foods.
Exercising and maintaining a healthy weight.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by the body's inability to regulate and use sugar (glucose) for energy.

This chronic condition leads to the accumulation of large amounts of sugar in the bloodstream, resulting in high blood sugar levels.
It is more common among individuals over 40 years old.

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes:

Increased thirst.
Increased hunger.
Blurred vision.
Dark patches on the skin (neck/armpits).
Slow-healing wounds.
Numbness or tingling sensation.

Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes:

Weight loss.
Following a healthy diet.
Monitoring blood sugar levels.
Regular physical activity.
Taking diabetes medications.

Habits to Protect Against Diabetes

Reduce sugar consumption.
Lose excess weight.
Engage in physical activity.
Follow a healthy diet.
Manage blood pressure levels.
Avoid tobacco products.